How to Start Exercising After a Long Break

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Walking Is the Easiest Way to Exercise Daily

The easiest way for you to include some physical activity in your day is by walking whenever you can. Heading to work? Alight one or two stops earlier and walk the rest of the way to the office. Do the same when you’re going home.

When it’s time for lunch, take a brisk walk to your favourite lunch spot instead of taking the bus or driving.

Avoid Long Periods of Inactivity

If you have a desk-bound job, take a five-minute walking break every hour. Don't have time for a walking break? Just get up and do some easy exercises like leg extensions at your desk. You can even do some strength-training by lifting a filled water bottle or two. It's really that simple to have an exercise routine at work, so there's no excuse for having no time to exercise!

Get Out of the House

When the weekend comes around, why not go for a walk along East Coast Park with the folks instead of being glued to the sofa watching TV? Even window shopping in a neighbourhood shopping mall will help you clock some physical activity.

If you need more motivation to keep moving, take part in the National Steps Challenge™. The more you move, the higher your chances of winning awesome prizes!

Stairway to Health

Elevators and escalators are convenient, but they don’t really count as physical activity. Skip them and take the stairs instead. When you’re at the MRT station, climb the stairs instead of riding the escalator. Or take the stairs to your office instead of using the elevator.

These actions might seem small but over time they'll add up and help you burn those calories and get fitter. 

Related: The Nudge to Budge: Why You Should Step Out of that Chair

Get Active Together

If you find it hard to exercise by yourself, grab your family or friends to join you for a workout. Having company might be just the motivation you need to keep active.

No idea where to look for group workouts? Try exercises at HPB’s MOVE IT programmes, like Zumba, HIIT and kickboxing.

The Gym Next Door

If there’s a gym near your home or office, why not sign up? You can sign up with a friend or colleague, or get to know new workout buddies at the gym. If it’s within your budget, you could even look out for personal trainers. They’ll not only help you stay motivated, but also get you to use all the muscle groups in your upper and lower body with a few simple workout routines.

Being more active in your daily life is easier than you think, so don’t be afraid to start getting active. Begin with small steps (literally!) and staying active will eventually become your healthy exercise habit.

Do consult your doctor before starting any exercise regime, and practice caution when exercising. Remember, safety first!

*Download the HealthHub app on Google Play or Apple Store to access more health and wellness advice at your fingertips.

Resources for Quitting

Join the I Quit 28-Day Countdown now! Call QuitLine at 1800 438 2000 for support, and visit participating retail pharmacies for advice that can help you quit.

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